Toomey retiring as head of SC drug abuse agency

Director Bob Toomey is retiring after leading the state Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services since 2011, Gov. Nikki Haley said Tuesday.

“Thanks to his award-winning leadership, there is a better understanding of what warning signs to watch for in our loved ones and where help is available for anyone battling substance abuse and addiction,” Haley said in a statement. “We are grateful for Bob's long service because he continues to give those who suffer and their families hope."

Most recently, Toomey pushed to expand treatment services for opioid addiction, a growing national problem.

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Before that, he was director of Retirement Systems, deputy director of the Budget and Control Board, and a Department of Mental Health deputy commissioner. He previously worked as a researcher for the Legislature.